RESEARCH DEGREES
Change the world with us
At UniSA we stop at nothing to make a difference.
By undertaking a UniSA project-based research degree, you will:
- Work with industry, community and academic experts to tackle specific real world challenges
- Be supported by exceptional researchers and state-of-the-art facilities at a university where 100% of our research is rated at or above world-class*
- Embrace different cultures and the rich and varied ways of knowing and doing research
- Develop the skills necessary to become an expert in your field.
Choose a project in your specialist area, including STEM, health, education, social work, Aboriginal knowledges, creative industries and more.
The process is simple: apply for an established research project which has a confirmed topic, supervisory panel, scholarship and fee waiver, or develop your own project.
All Australian students receive a fee waiver, as do international students who apply for a project with an attached scholarship.
Planning to start your degree in 2026?
You can apply to Adelaide University directly. Applications are currently open for international students and will open for Australian students in August 2025.
Find a research project
If you’re interested in studying a research degree at UniSA, browse some of our currently available research projects. New projects are added regularly, so if you don’t see a project that interests you, please complete the Expression of Interest form, and you'll be notified when new projects are listed.
Applicant type
Study level
Financial support
Fields of Research
Industry sectors
Industry Partnered Projects
Closed projects
Research centres
Thinking of studying soon?
2025
Ready to start your research degree in 2025? You can apply to UniSA or the University of Adelaide now before continuing on to the new Adelaide University in 2026.
When the time comes to transfer, we’ll be here at every step, ensuring you’re well supported with personalised advice.
2026
Planning to start your research degree in 2026? You can apply to Adelaide University directly. Applications are currently open for international students and will open for Australian students in August 2025.
To view scholarships available at the new Adelaide University in 2026, please visit Adelaide University Scholarships.
Hear from our researchers
Hear from our students
I chose to pursue my PhD at UniSA because of its strong research programs and its commitment to innovation in sustainable mineral beneficiation. My project focuses on developing biopolymer collectors that selectively target specific minerals during flotation, with the goal of improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact. What excites me most is the opportunity to work on real-world problems through advanced surface chemistry and materials science. UniSA offers a collaborative environment where curiosity is encouraged, and support is always available. If you’re thinking about research—dive in. It’s a journey that will challenge you, transform you, and prepare you to make a meaningful impact.
Rupinder Kaur
PhD Candidate in Chemistry
UniSA
UniSA has a strong reputation for supporting, encouraging and enabling students, which helped me to take the leap to start a research degree. I have never lacked support or someone to turn to for guidance. I have an incredible team of supervisors, and all the academics here at UniSA are always willing to contribute their expertise and ideas. Exploring the experiences of LGBTI+ older adults in navigating aged care through my PhD research has been incredibly rewarding so far. It is UniSA’s culture of support and collegiality that makes me feel safe to step out of my comfort zone and into creating knowledge for the future.
Sarah McMullen-Roach
PhD Candidate in Public Health and Health Services
UniSA
My PhD allows me to do meaningful research, which could ultimately benefit people’s lives. I am working with research experts, including my supervisors, to enhance the understanding of brain health and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease. UniSA’s collaborative environment, along with access to cutting-edge facilities, enables me to combine technology and healthcare in significant ways. My collaborations and friendships with fellow researchers have not only given me motivation and support but have also opened doors to new ideas and opportunities I might not have otherwise encountered.
Elio Arruzza
PhD Candidate in Medical Radiation Science
UniSA
I chose UniSA for its strong reputation in pharmaceutical research and its commitment to innovation. I was drawn to the opportunity to collaborate with experts in formulation science, microbiome research and nanotechnology. It’s the interdisciplinary nature of my research that makes my schedule interesting. I'm thankful for the opportunity to contribute to research that could one day improve the way we treat chronic diseases. UniSA provides world-class facilities and supportive supervision, creating a high-quality environment that allows me to pursue research that’s both fulfilling and impactful.
Amin Ariaee
PhD Candidate in Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences
UniSA
I chose to study my research degree at UniSA because of its strong reputation in minerals and resource engineering and the opportunity to work with experienced supervisors and industry partners. I enjoy the hands-on research and the chance to contribute to sustainable solutions in mining. Through my research, I hope to support the shift towards a circular economy by advancing more efficient and eco-friendly extraction processes. To anyone considering a research degree at UniSA—go for it! Be curious, stay open to learning, and take advantage of the supportive research environment. It’s a rewarding journey that will shape your career and make a real impact.
Gertrude Acquah
PhD Candidate in Engineering
UniSA
Latest news about our PhD candidates
Research excellence at UniSA
How to apply
Follow our step-by-step guide as you prepare your application to maximise your chance of success.
Research Degree Admissions
p: +61 8 8302 5880
e: research.degrees@unisa.edu.au
Location
Level 2, 101 Currie Street
Adelaide SA 5000
Australia
Postal address
GPO Box 2471
Adelaide SA 5001
Australia
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